6 Benefits Of Scientifically Proven Papaya Fruit

Papaya is a tropical fruit rich in nutrients and antioxidants. In today’s article, we present some health benefits of papaya fruit, which have been scientifically confirmed.

Because it has many health benefits, we can say that papaya is a powerful fruit. Scientific studies have shown the effects of the nutrients and antioxidants in its composition on problems such as cancer, inflammation or aging. In the following, we will talk about six of the most important benefits of papaya fruit.

Nutritional profile of papaya fruit

One of the main benefits of papaya fruit is its content of vitamin C. In fact, a portion of papaya provides 144% of the daily requirement of vitamin C. Vitamin C stimulates the immune system and, due to its antioxidant effect, fights free radicals. .

Another beneficial substance contained in papaya is vitamin A (a portion provides 31% of the daily requirement). This is essential to support the health of the skin, mucous membranes and eyesight. In addition, vitamin A is effective against macular degeneration.

Papaya provides 13% of the recommended daily dose of folate, as well as significant amounts of fiber and potassium. All of these nutrients are components that the human body needs to control heart rate and blood pressure.

At the same time, papaya contains 212 amino acids and several enzymes, including papain. Papain has an anti-inflammatory effect on the stomach, improving digestion and relieving the discomfort experienced.

Other nutritional properties worth mentioning are:

A cup of papaya contains only 55 calories.
Papaya provides vitamin B (B1, B2 and B3), but also vitamin D.
In addition to potassium, papaya also contains other important minerals such as sodium, calcium, magnesium, iron and zinc.

What health benefits have papaya fruit discovered by researchers?

1. Stimulates the immune system

Natural juice that offers the main benefits of papaya fruit

As mentioned earlier, papaya has a high content of vitamin C. Foods rich in this nutrient can improve the functioning of the immune system and reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. In addition, these foods have been associated with a lower risk of cancer.

Studies have shown that lycopene in the papaya fruit has an anticancer effect, being able to inhibit or slow down the development of several types of tumors.

2. It is a powerful natural antioxidant

Oxidative stress is a risk factor for problems such as cancer, heart disease and aging. Papaya fruit is rich in various natural antioxidant compounds. It is also a rich source of vitamin A.

3. Relieves inflammation

Inflammation is the mechanism by which the human body protects itself against infections caused by bacteria, viruses and other pathogens. In general, all foods rich in antioxidants have anti-inflammatory properties.

Papaya can relieve inflammation in the lower parts of the body.

4. Reduces the risk of heart disease

Some studies suggest that lycopene may combat oxidative stress because it fights free radicals. A secondary benefit of this property is the prevention of heart disease.

In addition, vitamin C in the papaya fruit has an antioxidant action. It can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease.

5. Fights the signs of aging

Woman enjoying the main benefits for the skin of papaya fruit

Aging is a natural process that evolves over time, but which oxidation intensifies. Foods rich in antioxidants, including papaya, can relieve the signs of premature aging. For example, by combating oxidative stress, this fruit can prevent the premature appearance of wrinkles and sagging skin.

Some studies show that both vitamin C and lycopene can improve the appearance of the skin and prevent the signs of aging. Also, topical application of papaya is useful to treat wounds and other skin problems.

6. Facilitates digestion

There is scientific evidence to suggest that papaya can prevent digestive problems. In a study on the effectiveness of a papaya-based treatment, researchers found that papain can relieve symptoms such as intestinal gas. Basically, the papaya in the papaya fruit supports digestion.

Contraindications

Despite all the benefits mentioned above, it is not advisable to eat papaya if:

You often suffer from digestive problems
You suffer from diarrhea
You are undergoing treatment with diuretics
You suffer from kidney stones

Papaya consumption is a great way to reduce your risk of cancer and heart disease. Include this fruit in your daily diet. Serve it simply in drinks and smoothies or include it in salads.